YB Abstention: PM says "SACK THEM"!

[edteam]

<FONT SIZE="+1">YB Abstention: PM says "SACK THEM"!</FONT>

UTUSAN MALAYSIA
Jumaat, 29 November 2002

PM: MCA perlu pecat ADUN berkecuali undi usul DAP
Oleh: ISMAIL DAUD

PUTRAJAYA 28 Nov. - Datuk Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad berkata, MCA perlu memecat kedua-dua Ahli Dewan Undangan negeri (ADUN) parti itu yang mengambil sikap berkecuali ketika mengundi usul DAP pada persidangan Dewan Undangan Negeri Pulau Pinang minggu lalu.

Perdana Menteri yang juga Pengerusi Barisan Nasional (BN) berkata, parti komponen tersebut menyerahkan kepada MCA untuk membuat keputusan mengenai kedudukan kedua-dua ADUN berkenaan.

"Kita biarkan MCA untuk membuat keputusan dan apa yang boleh mereka putuskan ialah menggugurkan kedua-dua ADUN berkenaan,'' katanya.

...Dr. Mahathir menegaskan, jika MCA enggan membuat keputusan dan menyerahkannya kepada BN, parti komponen itu bersedia mengkaji kes tersebut dan menentukan keputusannya.

<A HREF="http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2002&dt=1129&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Muka_Hadapan&pg=mh_03.htm"TARGET="NEW">FULL STORY</A>


<font size="+1">Related thread elsewhere in this Forum:
<a href="http://www.usj.com.my/bulletin/upload/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2974">MCA runs foul of BN rules in Penang</a></font>

[joker2107]

yup, bn n mca, sack them if u want, if ur rules say so.
don't forget, the ultimate employer with the ultimate right to hire and fire is the voter. if the guy i vote for to speak on my behalf is not allowed to voice my piece, then to hell with him. and his party? hahahaha thats the least of importance.

[CASSA318]

TOLERATE DISSENT IN WINGS PENANG STATE GOVERNMENT URGED!

It is reported that deputy premier, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi had stated that two Penang backbenchers - Lim Boo Chang (MCA-Datuk Keramat) and Tan Cheng Liang (MCA-Jawi) - face possible expulsion from the Barisan Nasional for refusing to vote against a motion tabled by an Opposition member.

The motion was to postpone the construction of proposed controversial RM1.02 billion Penang Outer Ring Road at the State Legislative Assembly sitting last week.

I am made to understand that the Deputy Prime Minister had felt that the duo's refusal to vote against the motion, tabled by Law Heng Kiang (DAP-Batu Lanchang), was a serious breach of discipline for BN members.

As a result, we are told that he has directed Penang Chief Minister and State BN Chairman, Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, to submit a full report on the matter to BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad as soon as possible.

Furthermore, we learn that directives have also been given to Penang State BN whip of the House, Datuk Dr Hilmi Yahaya to submit a similar report on the matter to Dr Mahathir.

And the duo's alleged crime was for refusing to vote against the motion.

Both backbenchers opted for abstention when individual polling was carried out.

However, in all fairness, I must point out that it was reported, that eight other backbenchers had either left or were not inside the House, when the polling was carried out and strangely, for some inexplicable reason, no word nor possible citation for disciplinary action was cited on them. And is this justified?


For the record however, Law's motion, which received three votes, comprising his and two other Opposition members (Abdul Rahman Kadir-Keadilan and Mohd Hamdan Abdul Rahman-Pas) was defeated with 19 votes from the Government benches.

As far as the duo is concerned, based on two precedents in Sabah there is no doubt that both face possible expulsion! But based on current "political rethinking, strategic challenges and needs" it may be politically imprudent to do so!

It must be pointed out that in June 1996 Sabah Gerakan pro-tem committee chairman Datuk Kong Hong Ming was expelled from the party for not supporting the Sabah BN-sponsored Sabah Forestry Enactment (Amendment) Bill, aimed at reducing the administrative powers of the Chief Minister.

The other case involved Sabah BN nominated assemblyman Jahid Jahim who was expelled for voting against a State Government's Bill to amend the Forest Enactment in the State Legislative Assembly, also in June 1996.

But, much as I concur with the deputy premier on the need for "party discipline and unity" on policy matters that have serious repercussions on the Barisan Nasional government and image, I cannot but plead, that emotions, "covert political agendas" will not run high and all parties will sit down and look at the issues at length, before any punitive action is initiated.

As a Penang born consumer advocate, with a proven track record of 33 years, let me state that there is more than the "expulsion of the two" at stake here and as such, I pray for "immense political wisdom and vision" by those making the decisions!

We must also avert giving the impression that the BN cannot tolerate nor accept dissent within its wings, even, when evidence is procured that it was due to "the wishes and feedbacks from the grassroots" that the abstention was made!

To uphold accountability, transparency and fairplay, it is also pertinent that disciplinary committees are not "prompted to act" even before, a formal inquiry is held on the matter first and all "due process exhausted"!.

The Barisan Nasional government in Selangor and the Federal government had done credibly in relocating the controversial billion ringgit Puchong incinerator in kampong Bohol in Selangor, by listening to the voices of the people and taking the "wind off the sails of the opposition" who were set to make political gains of at least 6 parliamentary seats and at least 5 state seats!

In similar vein, it must be remembered that the proposed controversial RM1.02 billion Penang Outer Ring Road has its "fair share of controversies", and has draw a wide range of protests from locals.

And, I must add that some federal politicians in their Italian suits and other state authorities have done little, to allay the fears of locals nor have they really indulged in "damage control, proper exposure and management of the issue" to the masses in Penang.

As such, it must be ascertained whether "like a true democracy functions" the two Penang backbenchers - Lim Boo Chang (MCA-Datuk Keramat) and Tan Cheng Liang (MCA-Jawi), were only reflecting and exercising the concerns of their electorate when the vote was counted.

And, if they are going to be penalized for that call, it will be a sad day for political maturity, of tolerance, unity in diversity and the Penang Barisan Nasional government may be painted as a "uncaring, intolerant and insensitive" lot to the calls for a review of that billion ringgit project!

One must also remember that this is the holy month of Ramadhan where peace, harmony, tolerance and a forgiving spirit must prevail in all Malaysians.



Dr.Jacob George
Subang Jaya:confused:

[joker2107]

if u r looking for politicians to speak on your behalf over and above party wishes, think carefully. :( look at the name of the party first.

the components of bn are not abbreviated as they are for nothing. umno inevitably is the acronym for u must not object while in mca martinet controls all.

jeers. :p

[edteam]

THE STAR
Friday, November 29, 2002

<FONT SIZE="+1">Umno recommends sacking of reps</FONT>
Updates from The Star News Desk

Umno has called for the sacking of two MCA representative for
indiscipline.

However, party president Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad
said the final decision would be up to the Barisan Nasional
supreme council.

SOURCE:
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2002/11/29/latest/9055Umnorecom&sec=latest

[edteam]

UTUSAN MALAYSIA
Sabtu, 30 November 2002

BISIK-BISIK -- AWANG SULUNG

Perhatian kini tertumpu kepada pucuk pimpinan MCA sama ada mereka akan memecat dua ahli Dewan Undangan Negerinya di Pulau Pinang kerana tidak menentang satu usul pembangkang dalam Dewan Undangan Negeri baru-baru ini.

...Bagi Awang, kes ini sedang menguji politik Presiden MCA, Dr. Ling Liong Sik yang telah sekian lama menghadapi masalah dalaman parti.

Terdapat teori yang mengatakan tingkah laku kedua-dua ADUN itu merupakan sebahagian daripada skim lebih besar MCA untuk membuka jalan supaya jawatan Ketua Menteri Pulau Pinang diberikan kepadanya.

...Rasa-rasanya MCA akan cuba cuci tangan dengan menyerahkan kepada BN untuk membuat keputusan. Jika ini berlaku, ternyata kepimpinannya sudah tidak ada tulang belakang.

- Awang - Mula meragui Ling.


FULL STORY:
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2002&dt=1130&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Rencana&pg=re_05.htm

[jeffooi]

UMNO says SACK.
Ling also says SACK.


BERNAMA.COM
November 30 , 2002 17:47PM

<FONT SIZE="+1">MCA Will Take Action On Its Two Reps - Ling</FONT>

BINTULU, Nov 30 (Bernama) -- MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik Saturday hinted that MCA will sack the two MCA state assemblymen from Penang, who had breached party discipline, from the Barisan Nasional (BN).

"We always listen to the advice of our friends (in the BN)," he told reporters after inspecting the progress of the new RM385 million Bintulu airport, about 45 minutes' drive from here.


SOURCE:
http://www.bernama.com/B2002/news.shtml?general/ge3011_12

[Voter]

We always listen to advice of friends! Well said. When friends say jump, I jump; when they say sit, I won't stand. Advice may just mean ORDER !

[ng]

Just out of curiosity, if the party president wants all its members to vote unanimously on all issues, wouldn't it better for just the party president to vote once and the rest of the members can stay at home ??

[jeffooi]

BERNAMA.COM
December 06 , 2002 20:23PM

Let MCA Settle Two Reps' Case, Says Dr Ling

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 6 (Bernama) -- MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik said any disciplinary matter involving members of Barisan Nasional (BN) components should be settled based on the constitution of the component party concerned.

He said it was on this premise that MCA representatives Tan Cheng Liang (Jawi) and Lim Boo Chang (Datuk Keramat) had been referred to the party's disciplinary committee.

"I think this has been the practice for disciplinary matters (as provided for) under the individual party constitution," he told reporters after attending the Hari Raya open house of Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi here Friday.


FULL STORY:
http://www.bernama.com/B2002/news.shtml?general/ge0612_15

[jeffooi]

BERNAMA.COM
December 06 , 2002 20:21PM

BN Has The Power To Take Disciplinary Action - BN Seg Gen

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 6 (Bernama) -- The Barisan Nasional (BN) has the power to initiate action against the two BN Penang assemblyman who abstained from the vote on a DAP motion to defer the RM1.02 billion Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) at the state assembly last month.

Barisan Nasional Secretary-General Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat said the BN under its constitution was empowered to take disciplinary action against any component party members, but in practice such problems were referred to the respective component parties.

"There is the power under the constitution, there is a clause on disciplinary action, the only thing is that it is seldom evoked," he told reporters after attending Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's Aidilfitri Open House at Putra World Trade Centre here.

..."As far as the BN is concerned, we consider it a very serious matter as we don't want this to recur," he said.

Tan Sri Mohamed also said that he would propose that the BN set up its own disciplinary board rather than go through the respective component party disciplinary boards in the event of a breach in discipline.

The proposed BN Disciplinary Board would be chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi who is also the BN deputy chairman, he said.

However Tan Sri Mohamed did not reveal when the proposal would be tabled but merely said it would be "somewhere next year".

-- BERNAMA


FULL STORY:
http://www.bernama.com/B2002/news.shtml?general/ge0612_13

[saml]

I think ling must be regretting like mad that he kicked out lim ah lek as chairman of the disciplinary committee and put in his own cowboys. If it was still under lim he could wash his hands as whatever decision made by the committed would be damned. Now his committee is seen as an extension of him or a third hand so he is caught in a bind. If he sack, then he will lose the already slipping support of those in his party and if he does not he will incur the wrath of his great benefactor. So do also die , don't do also die. I think he deserves it for all that he has done. There is always a balance in this universe.

[jeffooi]

<font size="+1">Who is the boss?</font>

NEW STRAITS TIMES
Saturday, December 7, 2002

BN has power to act against MCA duo
Patrick Sennyah and Chow Kum Hor

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 6: Barisan Nasional has the power to act against the two errant Penang MCA assemblymen if their party fails to deal with them accordingly.

BN secretary-general Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat said there were provisions in the coalition's constitution which provided for disciplinary action against members of component parties.

Although the disciplinary clause had never been used so far, he said he had recently asked the coalition's deputy chairman, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, to head the BN disciplinary board.

..."It is high time the board be established," said Mohamed at Abdullah's Hari Raya open house today.

When it came to discipline, he said BN was concerned about the behaviour of its elected representatives and would take action to safeguard the integrity of the party.

...Meanwhile, Umno vice-president Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib said Umno had made its stand clear on the matter, and the MCA should take it seriously to ensure close co-operation in the BN.

"MCA must respect the views of a component party and we have made our stand clear. We hope they will deal with the matter soon," he said.

...Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who is also an Umno vice-president, said the MCA should be guided by Dr Mahathir's viewpoint and make a decision as soon as possible.

"It should not be seen as if the MCA central committee is avoiding the matter and passing the responsibility to the disciplinary committee.

"The MCA must take this matter seriously and not set a precedent which could be detrimental to the party," he said.


FULL STORY:
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/National/20021207085102/Article/

[jeffooi]

BERNAMA.COM
December 07 , 2002 19:38PM

<FONT SIZE="+1">I Hope MCA Panel's Decision Will Fulfil BN's Aspiration - Abdullah</FONT>

KEPALA BATAS, Dec 7 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said Saturday he hoped the MCA Disciplinary Committee will fulfil the Barisan Nasional's (BN) aspiration when deciding on the case of the two MCA members who abstained from voting against an opposition motion at the Penang State Assembly on Nov 21.

The Deputy Prime Minister said he was given to understand that the five-member committee would meet on Wednesday.

He said the BN would only act after the MCA had made a decision on the two backbenchers.

He said the BN supreme council would discuss the matter if component parties were not satisfied with the decision.

"If MCA takes a decision which we feel is appropriate, we can allow it, but if other BN component parties are not satisfied with it, we'll discuss," said Abdullah, who is also BN deputy chairman.

Saying that he did not want any speculation on the action to be taken against Lim and Tan, he said the offence committed by the two was serious and those committing such offence could be expelled from the BN.

Abdullah said the scenario of BN assemblymen in Terengganu adopting a neutral stand on state government motions was different from the situation in Penang.

"In Penang, the BN is the state government while in Terengganu, it is in the opposition," he said.

He said a government would collapse if party members do not support its policies and aspirations.

-- BERNAMA


FULL STORY:
http://www.bernama.com/B2002/news.shtml?general/ge0712_11

[jeffooi]

THE STAR
Wednesday, December 11, 2002

<FONT SIZE="+1">Ling: Up to MCA to act on members</FONT>

PUTRAJAYA: Disciplinary matters pertaining to individual members of a party should only be dealt with by the party concerned and not by Barisan Nasional.

MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik said this was provided for under the Barisan constitution.

“In Barisan, one deals with the parties and not individuals. This is because membership in the coalition is according to party, not individuals.”

"Barisan can only act if the party is errant,” he told reporters after meeting a 17-member delegation from Osaka port at his office here yesterday.


FULL STORY:
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/archives/story.asp?ppath=\2002\12\11&file=/2002/12/11/nation/lldisiplin&sec=nation

[jeffooi]

Who is the Boss?

As expected, the fireworks were ready to ignite like Christmas tree for MCA.
Frontpage headline in The Sun: "Take BN stand or go"

* * *

NEW STRAITS TIMES
Thursday, December 12, 2002

<font size="+1">Power lies with BN, says Dr M</font>
Deborah Loh, Patrick Sennyah and Chow Kum Hor

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 11: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad today reminded the MCA that the Barisan Nasional has the power to decide which parties can be in the
coalition.

He said while it was true that the BN could not act against individual members of component parties, it could act against the parties themselves.

Dr Mahathir agreed with MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik, who yesterday said that the BN should not get involved in the party's decision on disciplinary action against its Penang State Assembly members Lim Boo Chang (BN-Datuk Keramat) and Tan Cheng Liang (BN-Jawi).

"Yes, that is true," said Dr Mahathir, who is also BN chairman.

"But the BN still has the power to decide which party becomes a member of the coalition." He said all BN parties worked on the basis of consensus.

"If a party is not able to abide by the BN's stand, that means the party is not fully in support of the BN's system of consensus," he told reporters at his office after launching the book In the Time of the Mishmish: A Painting in Twenty Parts by Dr Alijah Gordon.

...BN secretary-general Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat also criticised the MCA, saying that while the coalition may not have the power to discipline errant members from component parties, it could act against the parties themselves.

"Is Dr Ling suggesting that the BN act against the MCA since he pointed out that the coalition cannot discipline its errant assemblymen," Mohamed said in a telephone interview.

Article 14 of the BN constitution provides that: "The Dewan Tertinggi (supreme council) shall have the power to discipline or expel any member party for acting in any manner prejudicial to the interest of the BN."

Mohamed said if Dr Ling had forgotten, all candidates of component parties had contested under the BN banner, embraced the BN manifesto and won through the support of all BN supporters.

"Is Dr Ling, in wanting to protect his party assemblymen, challenging the BN to act against the party itself?" Mohamed said Dr Ling must also remember that BN has its hierarchy, organisational structure, administrative and disciplinary committee.

He said the issue of the two Penang State Assembly members was a BN matter as much as the MCA's, as their actions had affected the coalition's rule in Penang.

"To my mind, MCA should realise that the BN is not hard-up for candidates to contest in elections, and that includes the MCA assemblymen," he said.

...Gerakan secretary-general Chia Kwang Chye said although he felt disciplinary matters should be handled by the respective component parties, the component parties should not risk the integrity of the BN.

"BN elected representatives contest under the coalition banner, and not under the party. MCA should know what to do," he said.

Umno Youth deputy chief Datuk Abdul Aziz Sheikh Fadzir said BN had given the MCA ample time to act on the two and the statement by Dr Ling was an insult to BN component parties.

Aziz said BN representatives must echo the voice of the coalition and not personal views.


FULL STORY:
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Thursday/Frontpage/20021212071750/Article/

[jeffooi]

THE MALAY MAIL
Thursday, December 12, 2002

<font size="+1">Don't drag your feet, Ling told</font>
V. Vasudevan

That was the advice to the MCA from several BN component party leaders who urged its president, Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik, to act rather than drag his feet on taking disciplinary action against its two errant Penang Assemblymen.

Rather than question the powers of the BN and invite action against it, the leaders urged Dr Ling to be sincere and display the BN spirit.

The members came out in support of Barisan Nasional secretary-general Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat who had lashed out at Dr Ling for questioning the coalition's powers to discipline members.

<a href="http://www.mmail.com.my/Current_News/MM/Thursday/National/20021212100649"target="new">CLICK HERE</a> to read responses from the big guns:
- BN Secretary-General Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat
- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad
- Puteri Umno chief Azalina Othman
- People's Progressive Party (PPP) president Datuk M. Kayveas
- Umno Youth deputy chief Datuk Abdul Aziz Sheikh Fadzir
- United Pasok Kadazan Organisation (UPKO) organising secretary Philip Lasimbang
- Sabah Progressive Party chairman Datuk Yong Teck Lee
- Gerakan secretary-general Chia Kwang Chye
- MCA central committee member Donald Lim
- Serdang MP (BN - MCA) Datuk Yap Pian Hon


FULL STORY:
http://www.mmail.com.my/Current_News/MM/Thursday/National/20021212100649

[yschia]

Good letter except for the last paragraph:

>the entire episode also underlines the problems of Chinese-
based political parties that are more often disunited than united.
Here the DAP started the ball rolling, and when the MCA duo
abstained to vote against, the Gerakan attacked, with the DAP
coming out in defence of the duo. ]]

The case should be handled on the basis of right and wrong, not
on whether the victims are Chinese Malaysians or Malay
Malaysians or Indian Malaysians. The question of "unity" among
Chinese-based parties does not arise (unless one adopts the BN
mentality). DAP's position is made on high moral grounds:
Gerakan's vested interest in this case is obvious even to a
newborn infant.

LC
----------------------------------------------------------

From Malaysiakini
Better to play hooky than abstain from voting?

Jeffrey
4:26pm Thu Dec 12th, 2002

In reference to Barisan Nasionalbs recommendation to MCA to take strong
action against its state assembly representatives Lim Boo Chang (Datuk
Keramat) and Tan Cheng Liang (Jawi) for abstaining to vote against DAP motion
to defer the RM1 billion Penang Outer Ring Road project (PORR), MCA president
Dr Ling Liong Sik said, bMCA is always willing to listen to views and advice
from its friends in the Barisan Nasional. They have been patient and have
given us very good adviceb (BN has power to decide on membership, says PM).

This statement is interesting because it raises the question whether these
bfriendsb within the front are really friends and secondly whether it is
good advice.

In the first place, the advice is structured on double standards and arguably
not a good advice. It is double standards because when Kelantan state
legislature passed the Syariah Enactment in November 1993, the state assembly
(which has two Umno reps) had voted unanimously for the law for which
bfriendb Umno had taken no disciplinary action against its two
representatives.

When the Terengganu state assembly voted on the Syariah Criminal Offences
(hudud and qisas) Bill on July 8, three state assembly representatives from
Umno abstained from voting against it without being held to account (Why no
action against errant Umno reps, asks MCA?, Dec 2).

It has now come to light that there were eight other Barisan assembly
representatives (some of whom are from bfriendb Gerakan which supported the
sacking) who did not attend the Penang State Assembly meeting on Nov 21.
Three of whom had excuses of attending official matters elsewhere or
constituency needs as fire had broken out and the other to attend a function
at Bertam golf course (The Star, Dec 12).

It will be seen that while the whip to impose party discipline is applicable
b albeit selectively b to abstention from vote against the other sidebs
motion, no matter that the abstention is structured on conscience, it is
however not applicable to abstention from attending the entire sitting to
vote on an important issue. It must be important to warrant sacking for
abstaining to vote against a motion, as long as one has an excuse and has
obtained prior permission to attend a golf function.

This is something that Lim and Tan have to learn: when onebs conscience
pricks to vote against a motion that is perceived as pro-rakyat, the ruse is
to cook up some excuses to abstain from the entire sitting instead of
attending to abstain from voting . Thatbs the Barisan way. Migraine would
decidedly be better than golf function especially when it is easy to assert
and almost impossible to disprove, Ibd suggest. At least it does not give
constituencies the negative impression that their collective interest is less
important than other official or golf functions.

In response to Lingbs remark that BN cannot directly impose any disciplinary
action on individual members of component parties, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir
Mohamad was quoted by Bernama to have delivered the veiled threat that while
this was true, bthe BN has the power to determine which party can be a member
of Barisan Nasionalb (BN has power to decide on membership, says PM). This is
also true.

The prime minister was reported to have stressed that if any component party
was not prepared to abide by the Barisan Nasional stand, then it meant it no
longer upheld the system of co-operation in the front.

However, Lingbs dilemma is how to address, and accommodate a system of
co-operation that is structured on double standards in enforcement of
discipline regarding abstention cases within Barisan b and where discipline
sought to be enforced by the whip paid greater emphasis on the infraction of
abstaining from voting on an important matter but not leave of absence from
the entire sitting itself.

This form of enforcing party discipline smacks of the ludicrous, and if Ling
were to submit to the demands of such a veiled threat for not toeing the
line, it would imply that MCA has submitted to the ludicrous demands of
hegemony than logic and fairness that would demolish whatever moral position
MCA has ever hoped to assert on this controversy.

It would then appear that the most morally tenable position for Ling to
uphold in response to this veiled threat is to say that MCA will countenance
its fate as decided by other component parties within Barisan with as much
fortitude as it can muster. This would leave the ball in the court of those
who deliver threats to show whether they have the moral fortitude to execute
by action the threat beyond words against the backdrop of the coming general
election.

At stake is membership and sharing of power within the Barisan, whether it is
worth the while vis-C -vis the moral credibility of the party which has been
requested to toe the line whatever the sense or fairness of it.

In passing, the entire episode also underlines the problems of Chinese-based
political parties that are more often disunited than united. Here the DAP
started the ball rolling, and when the MCA duo abstained to vote against, the
Gerakan attacked, with the DAP coming out in defence of the duo.

[jeffooi]

<font size="+1">NOW, THE TAI-CHI IS ON Barisan Nasional PROCEDURE...</font>


NEW STRAITS TIMES
Friday, December 13, 2002

<font size="+1">Koh: Letter should not have been sent to me</font>
Freddie Ng

PENANG, Dec 12: Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said the MCA disciplinary board was wrong to have sent a letter seeking clarification on the case of two MCA Assemblymen who had abstained in a vote on an opposition motion, to him.

"Procedurally, it should have sent any communication seeking clarifications to the Barisan Nasional (BN) secretary general, who can then refer it to State BN," Koh said today.

Commenting on the disciplinary case against Tan Cheng Liang (Jawi) and Lim Boo Chang (Datuk Keramat), Koh said State BN secretary Datuk Khalid Ahmad had today written to board chairman Datuk Kam Woon Wah to advise him of the procedure.

"Alternatively, they should have written to the BN secretary-general and sent a copy to the State BN.

..."If they do not understand the principles of parliamentary democracy, I would advise the MCA disciplinary board and the MCA presidential council to read two authoritative articles on the issue.

"One is by former Supreme Court judge Tan Sri Harun Hashim in the New Straits Times on Nov 28 this year, and the other by V.K.Chin in the The Star on June 29, 1996," said Koh.

..."Perhaps the MCA disciplinary board should question its 11 Assemblymen why, when four of them who were in the chamber voted against the motion, these two did not."

"Ignorance is not an excuse for breach of discipline," he said, adding the duo were both second term Assemblymen and seasoned politicians.


FULL STORY:
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Friday/National/20021213082129/Article/

[edteam]

Though this protracted issue has political flavours, let's look at it as a live case of how good governance is being practised - or NOT being practised in our country.


UTUSAN ONLINE
Saturday, December 14, 2002

<font size="+1">Koh surprised over MCA's hasty move on "abstaining" issue</font>

PENANG Dec 13 - Penang Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said today he was surprised over the hasty move by the MCA Disciplinary Committee to arrive at a decision on the two assemblymen who defied the BN whip and abstained on a vote taken on a DAP motion last month.

Dr Koh, who is Penang BN Chairman, said the process should be over a reasonable period after taking into account the views of nine other MCA assemblymen who were either present or absent during the vote.

"They should make a decision within a period of weeks but before the BN meeting next month," he said after opening the "Penang Econmic Survey" lecture.

He said as a BN component party it should also take into account the views of other member-parties before arriving at its decision.

"Different views are most often allowed but not to the extent of abstaining," he said.

During the Penang State Assembly session on Nov 21, Lim Boo Chang (MCA-BN-Datuk Keramat) and Tan Cheng Liang (MCA-BN-Jawi) defied the BN whip and abstained when a vote was taken on a DAP motion opposing the Penang Outer Ring Road.

Dr Koh said the two claimed they were voicing the views of the people affected by the project but the BN representatives who represented the affected area were three other MCA assemblymen and one Gerakan assemblyman. All of them voted against the DAP motion.

The MCA members are Datuk Koay Kar Huah (Bukit Gelugor), Datuk Dr Loh Hock Hun (Paya Terubong) and Lye Siew Weng (Air Itam) while the Gerakan member is Datuk Dr Teng Hock Nan (Kebun Bunga), Dr Koh said.

The Chief Minister said the constituencies represented by Lim and Tan were not affected by the Penang Outer Ring Road.

He said Lye rose to oppose the DAP motion and said problems arising from the project could be resolved and would cooperate with the government in this matter.

He said Tan who represented Jawi in Seberang Perai Selatan, should be more concerned over the Butterworth Outer Ring Road which was being implemented and affected some 1,600 houses compared to 42 involved in the Penang Outer Ring Road.

Dr Koh said that one of the MCA assemblymen who was not present in the House on that day, Lim Chieng Aun (Bayan Lepas) had said that if he had been present he would have opposed the DAP motion.

He said five assemblymen had informed him or Deputy Chief Minsiter Datuk Dr Hilmi Yahya that they were unable to attend the session while three other MCA members did not - Chieng Aun, Lim Gim Soon (Kampong Kolam) and Lee Hack Teik (Pengkalan Kota).

House Speaker Datuk Yahaya Abdul Hamid need not have to ensure all members were present as it did not involve any amendment bill.


SOURCE:
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2002&dt=1214&pub=Utusan_Express&sec=Home_News&pg=hn_01.htm

[edteam]

From the Official Mouth-piece:

NEW STRAITS TIMES
Saturday, December 14, 2002

Editorial:
<font size="+1">No compromise on party loyalty</font>

IS there room for individual expression in party politics? For the two Penang MCA Assemblymen the answer must surely be “yes” but, going by party rules, they are very much mistaken.

When the party line is ignored in such an obvious manner, they must be reprimanded and not in a small way. Going by past experience, sacking should be the only outcome.

Why then is the MCA disciplinary committee taking its time in ways that can transparently be read as attempts at diversion? There surely is no need, for example, to get the Gerakan chief minister involved, especially when the MCA president has declared the matter to be an internal one and that their membership of the Barisan Nasional does not adulterate this independence one iota. The only recourse open to the BN, should MCA feel unable to act against its rebellious members, is forfeiture of its BN membership.

Online polls carried out on the MCA homepage suggest that there is public support for the errant members. After all, their actions, no matter how ill-conceived, had no ad-verse effect on the particular policy. Unfortunately, this sentiment demonstrates a level of public ignorance — seemingly shared by the party — with regard to the institutions of representative democracy. It must be under-stood that party loyalty is that element which makes for the certainty of democratic choice, that is, one votes for a party manifesto, the document that spells out intended governing policies, and not for politicians. The effectiveness of the individual representative is deemed from the trust the party places in its choice of the person as candidate.

Whether or not the MCA president realises the consequences of his actions, the power his party wields as part of the Government is contingent upon it belonging to the ruling coalition. Unerring loyalty to the BN cause of rapid national development is, then, the price of that privilege. The MCA disciplinary board's buck-passing is now testing the forbearance of Umno — on whom the party depends in times of crisis — and threatens the coalition's airtight solidarity. Nothing can justify non-action against any disciplinary breach. Therefore, act now lest the MCA beacted against for its own indiscipline.


SOURCE:
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/Columns/20021214082415/Article/

[edteam]

UTUSAN ONLINE
Sunday, December 15, 2002

<font size="+1">Penang MCA chief responsible for MCA reps' action, says Keng Yaik</font>

PENANG Dec 14 - Gerakan President Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik alleged today that the Penang MCA Chairman Wong Kam Hoong's action in organising anti-Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) meetings led to MCA's two backbenchers to abstain from voting against an opposition motion on the RM1.02-billion project at the Penang State Assembly last month.

He said he had proof from his own sources and from newspaper reports that Wong had called for the first anti-PORR meeting at a private place.

"He is the culprit," he told reporters after chairing Gerakan's Central Committee (CC) meeting.

Stressing that he was not against MCA, Dr Lim, who is Primary Industries Minister, said: "Wong is instigating MCA members to undermine the Barisan Nasional (BN) Government. I'm getting more reports as I come back here."

PORR is a Federal government project to ease traffic congestion on Penang island.

Dr Lim said he would not condone Wong's action and would bring up the matter in the next BN Supreme Council meeting as "Wong is part of all these exercise and scheming to organise people against PORR.

"How can he as a Parliamentary Secretary at Federal Government level organise anti-PORR group to go against federal and state projects.

"What's wrong with him. Doesn't he know how to behave like a Parliamentary Secretary?" he asked.

Wong is the Parliamentary Secretary to the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry.

Dr Lim said he would lodge an official complaint about Wong to BN Supreme Council.

"When you get one leader like that, he will start agitating and scheming and undermining a strong and cohesive government.

"If we allow this to go haywire, then that will be the downfall of the government and the downfall of Malaysia, which needs a strong and cohesive government," he said.

On the PORR project, Dr Lim said it was a good Federal Government project supported by the state government because it would alleviate traffic congestion in the Penang island.

He said Kuala Lumpur also had Jalan Tun Razak (formerly Jalan Pekeliling) Ring Road, Outer Ring Road One and Two and Middle Ring Road to disperse traffic.

He said the Penang state government had done everything to help the affected people and as such, he did not see why the people want to go against it.

As for the DAP, he said, they are against anything (implemented by the government) such as the North-South Expressway and Penang Bridge.


FULL STORY:
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2002&dt=1215&pub=Utusan_Express&sec=Home_News&pg=hn_04.htm

[jeffooi]

THE STAR
Monday, December 16, 2002

Wong: Lim behaving like a loose cannon
By FOONG PEK YEE

KUALA LUMPUR: Gerakan president Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik should be more responsible with his statements instead of behaving like a loose cannon and making accusations based on his own imagination or so-called sources, said Penang MCA chairman Wong Kam Hoong.

Dr Lim made a serious allegation when he named Wong as the person behind the protest against the proposed RM1.02bil Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) project, he said.

Wong rebutted it, saying that he should not be made a scapegoat by Gerakan for Dr Koh’s inept handling of the PORR issue.

...Wong maintained that there was no secret meeting with the anti-PORR committee as alleged by Dr Lim, adding that Dr Lim’s so-called sources could only be anti-Barisan elements out to disrupt Barisan unity.

...He stressed that he was never against a traffic dispersal project like the PORR but felt that it should not cause undue hardship to the people.

To this end, Wong said he had proposed that a double-decker road be built to alleviate traffic problems and reduce the number of affected houses and other related problems to the people.

“All views should be taken in good faith. As Barisan leaders, we must listen and address the concerns of the people instead of creating political controversies,” Wong added.


FULL STORY:
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2002/12/16/nation/fpstates&sec=nation

[jeffooi]

THE STAR
Monday, December 16, 2002

Indefinite suspension for MCA duo
Update by The Star News Desk

The MCA has suspended the membership of the two Penang assemblymen who had abstained from voting against a DAP motion to defer the controversial Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) project.

The suspension – for an indefinite period – was meted out against Tan Cheng Liang (Jawi) and Lim Boo Chang (Datuk Keramat) – by the presidential council at its meeting at Wisma MCA in Kuala Lumpur on Monday.

Party president Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik said the suspension is effective from today.

He said the indefinite suspension was recommended by the party’s five-men disciplinary board.

Dr Ling said 16 council members voted for the recommendation while one – Datuk Fu Ah Kiow – abstained. Four members were not present. They were deputy president Datuk Lim Ah Lek, vice-presidents Datuk Chua Jui Meng and Datuk Chan Kong Choy and party Youth chief Datuk Ong Tee Kiat.


SOURCE:
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2002/12/16/latest/9197Indefinite&sec=latest

[jeffooi]

<font size="+2">New twist:
What do you mean by 'indefinitely?</font>



UTUSAN ONLINE
Tuesday, December 17, 2002

<font size="+1">MCA Presidential Council's decision: Abdullah wants explanation</font>

KUCHING Dec 16 - Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi wants an explanation from MCA regarding the suspension sentence imposed by its presidential council against its two Penang assemblymen.

"I certainly want to know what it means by `indefinitely'... if `indefinitely' is to mean until the end of their respective terms as BN-elected representatives, then it could be viewed as a stern decision, meaning no more role for them as BN assemblymen," he told reporters after attending a Hari Raya get-together organised by the Sarawak Malay Cultural Foundation and Hikmah at the Petra Jaya Unity Stadium here tonight.

...However Abdullah said that if the suspension was for a short period of time then it would be meaningless and would not commensurate with the gravity of the offence committed.

He said MCA would probably have explained the rationale of the presidential council's decision to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad who is also the BN Chairman.

EARLIER, Gerakan President Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik has described the decision of the MCA Presidential Council today to suspend indefinitely its two Penang state assemblymen as insincere.

He said the MCA Presidential Council should have considered the cohesiveness that existed within the Barisan Nasional (BN).

"It is a decision taken on the context of MCA without care for the spirit of the Barisan Nasional," he told reporters after receiving a courtesy call from Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Klang here.

...Meanwhile, the Peoples' Progressive Party (PPP) president Datuk M. Kayveas said the decision was harsh enough as it was tantamount to expulsion.

"In the spirit of the Barisan Nasional, I think we should wait for BN Supreme Council meeting next month before making any official stand on this matter," he added.

MIC President Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu meanwhile felt that MCA had acted fairly in taking disciplinary action against the duo.

In PENANG, Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon wanted the MCA to explain what it meant by suspending the two assemblymen "indefinitely".

Was it forever or just for a certain period of time, he told a news conference at his office.

Dr Koh, who is also Gerakan vice-president said the MCA must make this clear before the BN Supreme Council's meeting next month.

"Their status is still unclear and whether they are still BN assemblymen or independents. It depends on the decision of the coming meeting and in this respect, MCA must state clearly the period of suspension," he said.

IN reaction to his suspension, Datuk Keramat state assemblyman Lim Boo Chang said that he is upset but will respect the MCA presidential council's decision to suspend him indefinitely for abstaining from voting against an opposition motion on the Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) project.

He said he accepted the decision with an open heart and promised to continue to serve his constituency.

..."My heart is still with MCA and BN. I'm very upset over this but my service centre will continue," he said, adding that he would be more dedicated to his constituency.

Meaanwhile, Jawi state assemblywoman Tan Cheng Liang, who together with Lim was suspended by the MCA presidential council today for the same reason, could not be contacted for comment.


SOURCE:
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2002&dt=1217&pub=Utusan_Express&sec=Home_News&pg=hn_03.htm

[jeffooi]

NEW STRAITS TIMES
Wednesday, December 18, 2002

Comment:
<font size="+1">Case of the errant MCA duo seems like a recurring bad dream for BN</font>
Shamsul Akmar

Dec 18: THE case of the two errant MCA Assemblymen seems to be like a recurring bad dream.

...Now it has decided to announce the indefinite suspension of the two Assemblymen which had indeed gone against the suggestion by Dr Mahathir who is, apart from being the Umno president, the BN chairman.

"MCA, instead of being enraged, embarrassed and angry with the action of the two, had been dragging their feet and trying to undermine Umno and Gerakan," said another senior Umno leader.

Now BN has to deal with the indefinite suspension, which to the leaders other than from MCA, is unclear and not reflecting sincerity.

"The least the MCA could have done was to specify the time-frame of their suspension and that the two will not be re-nominated as candidates for the next general election.

"Furthermore, the MCA should inform the BN chairman first of its decision. Much as Dr Ling may feel that the BN had no power to get involved in disciplinary matters of its members, he should at least realise that it is the BN chairman who decides and signs the letter of candidacy of who gets to contest under the coalition's banner," said an observer.

On this, a mid-level MCA leader shared her displeasure over the stance and the manner in which the party handled the case.

"I believe the time has come for BN to review its constitution to ensure that elected representatives who contested under the coalition's banner can be disciplined and not be left only to the discretion of the component parties.

"What we saw is truly a mockery to the cooperation in BN. When it comes to winning election, it is a collective effort and contribution.

"However, when a member of a component party misbehaves, opinions of partners are not taken into consideration. Punishment taken is not only inadequate but also an insult to the component partners who are equally, if not more affected, by the indiscipline," she said.

The whole issue may come to pass and would be forgotten over time. However, it is clear, based on the reactions of some of the leaders of component partners, that the episode had eroded quite a lot of goodwill they had for the MCA.

They will not lose sleep over it. But it would be a recurring bad dream.


FULL STORY:
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Wednesday/Columns/20021218075715/Article/

[jeffooi]

<font size="+1">Official mouthpiece, NST, puts back the heart of issue to the notion of 'Governance' and the BN doctrine of 'Consensus'</font>


NEW STRAITS TIMES
Wednesday, December 18, 2002

Editorial:
Belting the BN consensus

THE heart of the issue is the failure of MCA Penang State Assembly members Lim Boo Chang (Datuk Keramat) and Tan Cheng Liang (Jawi) and their sympathisers to understand the doctrine of collective responsibility in both Federal and State Governments.

The duty of elected representatives of the Barisan Nasional-led Government is to provide cohesion in the development of policy and projects while maintaining political support of its actions. This is vital if the Government is to achieve its policy objectives and administer affairs in ways that maximise its chances of long-term survival.

To borrow words from Bagehot, the famed constitutional theorist, state assembly members of the ruling coalition are the "hyphen which joins, the buckle which fastens the legislative part of the state to the executive part of the state". A frayed buckle threatens the long-term survival of the ruling party.

Parliamentarians and state assembly members jointly take responsibility for the decisions which they help to make, even if for some that is only by way of acquiescence. Their collective loyalty to the political survival of the Government should override their commitment to their views on what constitutes good policy.

As is the norm in representative democracy, those who want their "conscience" (as argued by the errant duo who abstained from voting against the Opposition motion to defer the RM1.02 billion Penang Outer Ring Road) to prevail over collective responsibility should lend meat to their conscience by resigning. This is the least expected of them. Which explains why some within the BN feel the only legitimate disciplinary action against the duo's breach of collective responsibility is expulsion.

Whatever MCA's reasons for opting for a suspension of membership for the duo, it is only acceptable if the "indefinite" suspension stretches until the end of their term as Assemblymen lest it have no punitive effect.

This needless episode poses several challenges for BN. It must ensure its cohesiveness is compromised neither by intra-party nor inter-party conflicts, nor the failure of its elected representatives to abide by the principle of collective responsibility. It must hone the skills of its representatives to communicate and defend its policies.


SOURCE:
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Wednesday/Columns/20021218082352/Article/

[jeffooi]

<FONT SIZE="+1">Again, the focus of the issue, as in the words of Dr M, is on principle and discipline. And essentially, it's about 'Who is the boss here!"</font>


STRAITS TIMES Singapore
Saturday, December 21, 2002

<font size="+1">Umno calls for firmer action on rebel Penang duo</font>
Suspension of legislators who defied MCA party whip is not seen as going far enough to satisfy all coalition members


KUALA LUMPUR - The Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) is being pressured to take stronger action against two of its Penang assemblymen suspended for defying a party whip over a motion tabled by the state opposition.

The association had to accept the fact that its two errant legislators had campaigned under the Barisan Nasional (BN) banner during the 1999 general election, Malaysia's Prime Minister and Umno president Dr Mahathir Mohamad said yesterday.

Umno is the major political component of the ruling BN coalition of 14 parties and the MCA is the second most-senior party.

'Although it is the responsibility of the MCA to take the action against its members, we feel that since they represent BN, the coalition must play its role in determining whether the indefinite suspension is sufficient or otherwise,' Dr Mahathir said after chairing an Umno supreme council meeting at party headquarters here.

He said that because it was a serious matter, Umno wanted the Barisan Nasional's own supreme council to make a final decision.

Asked to clarify Umno's position, Dr Mahathir said that based on the information available, the matter was a coalition problem.

...Dr Mahathir said yesterday's decision was slightly different from Umno's recommendation last month that Mr Lim and Ms Tan be expelled.

'This is because we have received new information which will be forwarded to the BN supreme council. We will abide by any decision made by the coalition.' he said.

Dr Mahathir declined to give details on what that information might be, saying Umno did not want it to influence the BN's stand.

Asked whether there was any suggestion that the duo should vacate their seats, Dr Mahathir replied: 'We will bring this up.'

On whether there was an urgent need for BN to look into the suspension, Dr Mahathir said: 'This is a question of principle and discipline.'

Several Umno supreme council members said that the indefinite suspension term meted out by the association was misleading.

They argued that a suspension could be manipulated to enable the two legislators to 'get away easily'.

They said the sentence was too lenient and urged the association to come out with a proper timeframe which should at least stretch until the next general election.

'The general feeling is that if the MCA was really serious in taking action against the two, it should be done properly and not by having an indefinite period of time,' said a senior party leader.--New Straits Times


FULL STORY:
http://www.straitstimes.com.sg/asia/story/0,4386,161919,00.html?

[jeffooi]

NEW STRAITS TIMES
Tuesday, December 24, 2002

<font size="+1">Explain suspension, MCA urged</font>
Chow Kum Hor

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 23: MCA will be asked to explain to the Barisan Nasional supreme council next month the definition of “indefinite suspension” it imposed on its two backbenchers who abstained from voting a motion tabled by the Opposition at the recent Penang State Assembly.

BN secretary-general Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat said the term was vague and he would bring up the matter at the council's meeting.

"I do not know what it means. Does it mean that the duo are not MCA members any more? Or are they still members but without any rights? MCA must explain," said Mohamed, the former Information Minister.

... MCA officials like secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Ting Chew Peh and legal bureau head Datuk Leong Tang Chong had said that the status of the two was unclear following their suspension.

Meanwhile, party insiders said the action was a face-saving move as Umno had wanted the two to be sacked while party leaders were sympathetic towards Tan and Lim.


FULL STORY:
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Tuesday/National/20021224075057/Article/

[jeffooi]

NEW STRAITS TIMES
Tuesday, December 25, 2002

Ruminations:
<font size="+1">Indefinite suspension of MCA duo wishy-washy</font>
Rozi Ali

POLITICAL intrigues aside, the case of the two errant Penang State Assembly members, Lim Boo Chang (Datuk Keramat) and Tan Cheng Liang (Jawi), can be seen in these terms.

One, it indicates the failure of the duo (and, as gleaned from the rumour mill, their instigators or Tok Dalang who directed this shadow play) to abide by the inherent norms of a responsible party Government that characterises the Barisan Nasional Government at Federal and State levels.

Two, it raises questions over Chief Minister Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon's ability to act as the guardian of strategy, chiefly in keeping the "big picture" in front of the State legislative assembly so that longterm strategic interests of the BN-led Government are not compromised or lost amid disagreements over policy details.

Three, it suggests weaknesses in BN political actors' narrative ability to legitimise the State Government's decisions, be it projects such as the RM1.02 billion Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) or other policies, in terms that make them acceptable to its supporters and the public. This ability is vital for it influences both actions and perceptions.

All three challenge the capacity of the State Government (with lessons for the Federal Government and other BN-led state governments) to provide cohesion and coherence in policy development while maintaining political support for its actions; and to adapt to the changes in political values and public expectations.

More important, the episode challenges the BN's institutional culture as a parliamentary Government — which is characterised by elements such as strict solidarity in word and deed among the coalition members and close relationships among members be it in terms of parliamentary discussions, Cabinet or State Exco decisions as well as the determination to take every advantage to ensure its long-term survival as the governing party.

...It is not merely "party discipline" but rules of engagement. Adherence to these rules is crucial to ensure that once in office, the governing party is in good shape to push its programmes, onto the statute book and into effect in the country.

...There is no room for conscience votes unless, as is the political norm of parliamentary government, it is accompanied by resignation.

Whatever the hidden reasons that led to the duo's action, their breach of the rules of engagement and the punishment should be seen in the above context. An indefinite suspension is, at best, wishy-washy and, at worse, insincere and invites aspersions that the disciplinary board had "other considerations" in mind rather than the severity of implications to the State Government and the cohesion of BN's institutional culture.


FULL STORY:
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Tuesday/Columns/20021224080741/Article/

[jeffooi]

<font size="+2">Tok Mat sounds it again...</font>


UTUSAN ONLINE
Saturday, January 4, 2003

<font size="+1">BN can act against errant reps, says Mohamed</font>

KUALA LUMPUR Jan 3 - The Barisan Nasional (BN) has the right to take action on its elected representatives found acting against its interests, including the two Penang MCA assemblymen whose suspension is deemed inadequate by some, BN secretary-general Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat said today.

He said BN elected representatives contested on the BN ticket and won on its strength, and if the party constitution did not have provisions for such actions, amendments could be made.

"It is not only parties that can be accepted or expelled; I think BN elected representatives should also be subjected to action for turning their back on the party," he told a news conference at the BN headquarters here.

Mohamed said although BN did not have direct individual memberships but only through component parties, elected representatives were representing the party, either in state assemblies or Parliament.

The BN Supreme Council meeting on Tuesday would look into the case of the two errant MCA members in Penang to determine their position, he said.

...Mohamed said the position of the two MCA members, Tan Cheng Liang (Jawi) and Lim Boo Chang (Datuk Keramat), was now vague following the MCA Presidential Council's decision to suspend them indefinitely and the decision of the two not to appeal against their suspension.

...Mohamed said BN headquarters had received a lot of information on the case of the two assemblymen, but he declined to elaborate.

However, the action taken by the MCA against the two seemed to have a hidden motive, he said.


FULL STORY:
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2003&dt=0104&pub=Utusan_Express&sec=Home_News&pg=hn_08.htm

[jeffooi]

BERNAMA.COM
January 07 , 2003 21:45PM

<FONT SIZE="+1">BN To Fix Suspension Period For Two Errant State Assembly Members</FONT>

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 7 (Bernama) -- The Barisan Nasional (BN) supreme council Tuesday agreed with the MCA's decision to suspend its two Penang state assembly members for abstaining from voting against an opposition motion last November.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad said, however, that the coalition would fix the suspension period for the two whom the MCA presidential council had suspended indefinitely.

"The Barisan Nasional will decide when the suspension will end," Dr Mahathir, who is also the BN chairman, told reporters after chairing the three-hour supreme council meeting here.

...On the criteria to determine the suspension period, he said that it would depend on the conduct of the two. -- BERNAMA


FULL STORY:
http://www.bernama.com/B2002/news.shtml?general/ge0701_23

[jeffooi]

UTUSAN ONLINE
Wednesday, January 8, 2003

<font size="+1">Gerakan submits report to BN on Penang MCA chief</font>

KUALA LUMPUR Jan 7 - Gerakan Tuesday tendered a report to the Barisan Nasional (BN) supreme council on its claims that Penang MCA chief Wong Kam Hoong was the mastermind behind the controversy of the two MCA assemblymen abstaining from voting against a DAP motion on the Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR).

Its president Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik said the meeting, chaired by Prime Minister and BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad, decided to refer the matter to MCA President Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik.

"There is an agreement that in future, we will refer to each other (any issues or problems) in the interest of the BN, we verbally agreed Tuesday," he told reporters after the meeting.

Asked to comment on the report, Dr Ling said he would refer the matter to Wong.

"Anybody can make an accusation against anybody and whoever makes the accusation has to prove what he has said is right," he said.


FULL STORY:
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2003&dt=0108&pub=Utusan_Express&sec=Home_News&pg=hn_04.htm

[jeffooi]

UTUSAN ONLINE
Wednesday, January 8, 2003

<font size="+1">BN to have code of ethics for its members</font>

KUALA LUMPUR Jan 7 - The Barisan Nasional (BN) will have a code of ethics to supervise its state assemblymen and members of parliament to ensure that they toe the line and abide by all the decisions made by the BN leaders, Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad said Tuesday.

The prime minister said that the draft code of ethics would be discussed at the next BN supreme council but did not mention the date.

"In future, all state assemblymen from the BN component parties will be subjected to this rule and will abide by the BN stand at all times," Dr Mahathir, who is also the BN chairman, told reporters after chairing the BN supreme council meeting, here.

...The move stemmed from the abstention by two Penang MCA state assembly members, Tan Cheng Liang (Jawi) and Lim Boo Chang (Datuk Keramat) last November from voting against a DAP motion to defer the Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR) project.

They were later suspended indefinitely by the MCA but Dr Mahathir announced today that the BN would decide when to lift the suspension.

"After discussion, we (decided that we) need not enhance the punishment but must fix the (suspension) period. Many BN members feel that we need to have clear rules on the responsibilities of BN elected representatives.

"We agreed that they must all support the BN government and have the same stand," he said.

He said that it was the BN's responsibility and no longer the MCA's to determine the duo's suspension period.


FULL STORY:
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2003&dt=0108&pub=Utusan_Express&sec=Home_News&pg=hn_03.htm

[jeffooi]

<font size="+2">BN: No more si katak lompat.</font>


UTUSAN ONLINE
Ahad, 19 Januari 2003

<font size="+1">Wakil rakyat BN tak boleh lompat</font>
Oleh: ZULKIFLI JALIL

PULAU PINANG 18 Jan. - Wakil rakyat Barisan Nasional (BN) tidak akan dibenarkan melompat ke parti lain dan jika dilakukan mereka boleh digantung atau dipecat.

Hukuman itu pula tidak lagi diputuskan oleh parti yang dianggotai oleh wakil rakyat berkenaan tetapi telah diberi kuasa kepada Dewan Tertinggi BN.

Kedua-dua elemen penting ini terkandung dalam 'Draf Peraturan Wakil Rakyat BN' yang akan dikemukakan kepada Jawatankuasa Pengurusan BN yang dipengerusikan oleh Timbalan Presiden, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi untuk diperhalusi.

Setiausaha Agung BN, Datuk Seri Mohamed Rahmat memberitahu Mingguan Malaysia hari ini, selepas itu ia akan dibentangkan dalam mesyuarat Dewan Tertinggi BN untuk dibincangkan oleh semua pemimpin komponen parti sebelum diluluskan.

Beliau berkata, draf itu untuk memastikan BN tidak lagi 'dilemahkan' oleh tindak tanduk wakil rakyat mereka sendiri yang berlaku sebelum ini.

Dengan ada peraturan ini, katanya, semua wakil rakyat dikehendaki mematuhi pendirian BN dalam segala isu melibatkan kerajaan dan pembangkang.


FULL STORY:
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/content.asp?y=2003&dt=0119&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Muka_Hadapan&pg=mh_05.htm

[Voter]

Can lompat from outside in (opposition to BN)
Cannot lompat from inside out (BN to opposition)
Cannot lompat from within (Component to component)
What a selective ethics, might as well not have it.